Help and Support

Help and Support: Programs and Services for Cancer Patients and Families

The American Cancer Society is here to help you in your fight with cancer. Listed below are the information services and support programs available at your local office – all offered completely free of charge.  Their office services the Antelope Valley, Indian Wells Valley and Bishop/Mammoth areas.

• Information and Guidance ACS is available to anyone with questions about cancer. Local volunteers are available to help cancer patients and their loved ones throughout their treatment. 

• “Look Good…Feel Better”
Volunteer cosmetologists help patients enhance their appearance during cancer treatment. They demonstrate how women can use make-up, wigs and other accessories to help elevate their self-image, confidence and sense of control.

• “Man to Man”
Visitation program provided by trained prostate cancer survivors to help prostate cancer patients cope with the emotional and physical demands of treatment and recovery.

• “Reach to Recovery”
Visitation program provided by trained breast cancer survivors to help provide support and information for people facing a possible diagnosis of breast cancer, and for those who have been recently diagnosed.

• Transportation Assistance (“Road to Recovery”)
ACS offers a mileage reimbursement program in order to help patients cover the cost of transportation to and from cancer-related medical appointments.

• Lodging Program
Based on eligibility and availability, the ACS office is able to organize free lodging in the downtown Los Angeles area for patients undergoing treatment in this vicinity. Advanced notice is required.

• Legal Assistance
ACS provides referrals to free cancer legal resource centers to help with the following issues: cancer in the workplace, insurance coverage, trusts & estates, custody issues, government benefits and wills.

• “I Can Cope”
This group education program for cancer patients, their family members and friends addresses a variety of topics relevant to the cancer experience.

• Support Groups (call for further details)
- Talking, Learning, Coping (open to all cancer patients and their families)
- Prostate Cancer Support Group
- Women Coping with Cancer
- Hispanic Support Group (Spanish speaking facilitator)
- Colon Cancer Support Group

• Other Assistance
- Wigs
- Hats and scarves
- Comfort pillows
- Video and materials library